Explore every episode of the podcast Truth Tribe with Douglas Groothuis

In this episode, Dr. Groothuis discusses the suppression of free speech on college campuses, particularly by the "woke" ideology, referencing Herbert Marcuse's "Repressive Tolerance." 

Topics Covered:
Challenges of Intellectual Debate on College Campuses
Story of True Tolerance at the University of Oregon
Hopes for Future Academic Freedom

Other Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Groothius's book' Unmasking the New Age

American Evangelicalism: Conservative Religion and the Quandary of Modernity by James Davidson Hunter

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Often I will read a previously published essay or review of mine, or maybe even part of one of my books. But today I'd like to be a little more off the cuff and talk about the need to return to reading, particularly reading books.

There's an article in The Atlantic Monthly, November 2024, called The Elite College Students Who Can't Read Books. To read a book in college, it helps to have read a book in high school, and this essay laments the lack of reading of books in high school and the fact that many college students are not prepared to read.

In this episode, I want to share my own reading journey and talk about what it might take to help students today embrace and strengthen their reading life.

Resources Mentioned:

The Elite College Students Who Can't Read Books.

The Soul in Cyberspace 

The God Who Is There 

A Christian philosopher’s path to truth | Douglas Groothuis: Four books that shaped my thinking

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We embraced the mediated life―from Facetune and Venmo to meme culture and the Metaverse―because these technologies offer novelty and convenience. But they also transform our sense of self and warp the boundaries between virtual and real. What are the costs? Who are we in a disembodied world?

In today's episode, Dr. Groothuis reviews Christine Rosen's book "The Extinction of Experience: Being Human in a Disembodied World," which critiques the impact of technology on human life. Dr. Groothuis highlights Rosen's argument that technology impoverishes our lives by replacing human interactions with digital ones, such as handwritten notes with texting and in-person education with online learning. He notes that Rosen's secular perspective can be applied to religious practices like online church services. Dr. Groothuis also criticizes the reduction of art to mere entertainment and the negative effects of technology on attention and safety. Despite these criticisms, he acknowledges the convenience of technology but emphasizes the importance of preserving distinctively human experiences.

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Truth Tribe, I review Carl Trueman's newest book, "To Change All Worlds: Critical Theory from Marx to Marcuse." His magisterial 2020 volume, "The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self," established him as an insightful, rigorous, and incisive analyst who writes lucidly about complex ideas and places them into a Christian context. He then followed up this book with a smaller summary volume, which added new material, which was called "Strange New World," which was published in 2022. His newest effort addresses in more depth elements taken up in that previous work, or actually those two previous works, the nature of Critical Theory and its influence in contemporary culture.

Although critical race theory has its roots in critical theory, Truman does not say much about critical race theory. We are again in his debt for an in depth analysis, rich in original source research and pertinent for understanding contemporary cultural and political currents. Hegel was right in at least one thing: to understand an age, you must understand its philosophy, and as Christians, we must expose it and counter it with biblical truth.

Truman, patiently and non polemically, explains critical theory. To do so, he explores the philosophies of major figures such as Hegel, Karl Marx, and Sigmund Freud, and culturally significant thinkers from the German Frankfurt school such as Herbert Marcuse and Max Horkheimer. He also consults Neo-Marxist thinkers such as John Lucas and Karl Koch and the Neo-Freudian Wilhelm Reich as a historian.

Truman's aim is more elucidation than reputation, and he exposes difficult ideas in readable prose—no mean feat. However, he is wisely critical of critical theory to summarize and review a book that explores several dense thinkers, and their significance is challenging. I'd rather teach it than review it. However, several salient ideas emerge, which I will discuss here.

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Dr. Groothuis offers a diverse range of seminars designed to equip churches and groups with essential knowledge on contemporary issues that are increasingly relevant in today's society. His expertise spans various topics, including apologetics, critical race theory, and gender identity, all of which are crucial for understanding and navigating the complexities of modern culture.

Apologetics Seminars

A primary focus of Dr. Groothuis' seminars is apologetics, the defense of the Christian faith against objections and misconceptions. He offers several levels of training in this area:

1. Apologetics Boot Camp: This introductory seminar provides a foundational understanding of apologetics, covering the Christian worldview and basic arguments from science and history. It aims to equip participants with the tools to respond to common criticisms of Christianity, such as claims that it is anti-science or morally restrictive.

2. Mastering Apologetics: For those seeking a deeper understanding, this seminar delves into more complex apologetic matters. It is particularly beneficial for individuals involved in evangelism, campus ministry, or academic settings. Topics include various apologetic methods, the nature of truth, and a comparative analysis of Jesus's identity alongside other religious figures like Buddha and Muhammad.

3. Jesus Apologetics Immersion: This seminar focuses specifically on Jesus Christ's claims and credentials, examining the reliability of the New Testament and the significance of the Incarnation. It also explores how Jesus's teachings relate to other religions, providing a comprehensive view of his role in the Christian faith.

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Truth Tribe, Dr. Groothuis explores the heartfelt and somewhat lost art of writing meaningful cards and letters. He reflects on his mother's legacy as a champion correspondent and shares how her passing inspired him to connect more deeply with others through written communication. Dr. Groothuis emphasizes the significance of handwriting, noting that it re-humanizes our increasingly digital culture. He discusses the personal touch of sending cards, whether to comfort someone in need or to celebrate achievements and encourages listeners to consider who in their lives might benefit from a simple, thoughtful card. In this Christmas season, who can you send a card to this week?

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Impact of Plagiarism and AI on Authorship

In the podcast episode from Truth Tribe, Dr. Groothuis delves into the pressing issues surrounding plagiarism and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in writing. He argues that these practices not only undermine the integrity of authorship but also pose a significant threat to the very essence of what it means to be an author.

The Nature of Plagiarism

Dr. Groothuis begins by addressing the ease with which plagiarism can occur in the digital age. The Internet has made vast amounts of information readily accessible, which unfortunately facilitates the act of stealing another's work. Plagiarism is not merely a technical violation; it is a moral failing that encompasses lying, stealing, and coveting. By presenting someone else's work as their own, a plagiarist breaks the commandment against bearing false witness, steals intellectual property, and covets the recognition that rightfully belongs to the original author.

The Role of AI in Writing

The discussion then shifts to the implications of using AI in writing. While AI can generate text, it does so without the genuine thought and intention that characterize true authorship. When individuals use AI to produce written content, they are not engaging in the authentic process of creation. Instead, they are outsourcing their intellectual labor to a machine, which diminishes their own identity and agency as human beings. This reliance on AI can lead to a form of "literary suicide," where individuals forfeit their moral and intellectual ownership of their work.

Authenticity and Human Agency

At the core of Dr. Groothuis argument is the idea that true authorship stems from one's skills, knowledge, and personal experiences. He asserts that authorship is an expression of human agency, reflecting our thoughts and intentions. The act of writing should be a product of hard work, dedication, and personal growth. When individuals resort to plagiarism or AI-generated content, they not only misrepresent their abilities but also deny themselves the opportunity for genuine self-expression and development.

The Consequences of Literary Fraud

Engaging in plagiarism or dishonest use of AI leads to a loss of integrity. By claiming authorship of work they did not create, individuals become "literary frauds," attributing knowledge and skills to themselves that they do not possess. This not only affects their personal identity but also has broader implications for the value of authorship in society. The act of writing should be a meaningful endeavor, contributing to the richness of human culture and knowledge. When individuals choose shortcuts, they undermine the very foundation of what it means to be an author.

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Truth Tribe, Dr. Groothuis reviews Byung Chul Han's book "The Crisis of Narration," highlighting Han's critique of contemporary culture's loss of meaningful narratives. Han, a Korean philosopher based in Germany, laments the decline of metanarratives, particularly the Christian narrative, which once gave life meaning and structure. Dr. Groothuis notes Han's insights on digital technologies' impact on human connection and attention, likening it to a "tsunami of information" that fragments our experience. Despite Han's perceptive social critiques, Groothuis argues that only Christianity offers a true and comprehensive narrative, which Han's work lacks.

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, Dr. Groothius discusses four influential books that shaped his philosophical perspective.

"The God Who Is There" by Francis Schaeffer introduced him to the importance of Christian worldview and apologetics.

Blaise Pascal's unfinished work, "Pensées," deepened his understanding of human nature and the Christian view of humanity.

C.S. Lewis's "The Abolition of Man" emphasized the necessity of objective moral values.

Lastly, Neil Postman's "Amusing Ourselves to Death" highlighted the impact of media on culture. Royce emphasizes the integration of these works with the Bible in shaping his worldview.

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Truth Tribe, Dr. Groothuis examines a haunting question from Charles Malik in 1982: "What does Jesus Christ Think of the University?" Charles Malik was a Lebanese Christian who was very involved with the United Nations and an educator. Today's episode features a reading from his book, A Christian Critique of the University.

In this episode, we cover:

• Christian Worldview and Teaching Content and Character
• The Role of Jesus Christ in Higher Education
• Teaching from a Christian Worldview
• Developing a Christian Mind
• Character and Humility in Teaching

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Truth Tribe, Doug Groothuis discusses the Apostles' Creed, emphasizing its role in Christian doctrine and its denial of various non-Christian beliefs. He argues for a "counter catechism" to equip Christians to counter false teachings in a hostile world. Groothuis outlines the Creed's affirmations and corresponding denials, such as rejecting pantheism, polytheism, and henotheism, and affirming Jesus' divinity and resurrection. He also denies teachings like reincarnation, annihilationism, and the Swoon Theory. Groothuis emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment and theological testing, advocating for a strong understanding of what is false in relation to true Christian doctrine.

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is Distinguished University Research Professor of Apologetics and Christian Worldview at Cornerstone University and the author of twenty books, including Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this second part of his series on myths in Christian apologetics, Dr. Groothuis discusses five more myths about apologetics. He refutes the notion that God is above logic, arguing that God is the source of logic. He clarifies that Jesus used reasoning in his ministry and that Paul was successful at Mars Hill. Groothuis emphasizes the importance of using words to preach the gospel and explains the hypostatic union, stating that Jesus is truly God and truly man, not 100% of each. He advocates for the cumulative case method in apologetics and stresses the necessity of mastering logic. He also counters the idea that no one becomes Christian through apologetics, asserting that the Holy Spirit can use apologetics to draw people to faith.

Myth 6: Jesus is 100% God and 100% Man

Myth 7: It Doesn't Matter What Apologetic Method You Use

Myth 8: Christians Need Not Master Logic and Argument Forms

Myth 9: We Cannot Know Everything, So God Might Exist in Our Ignorance

Myth 10: No One Becomes a Christian Through Apologetics

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is a Professor of Philosophy at Denver Seminary and the author of nineteen books, including Fire in the Streets (a critique of critical race theory or wokeness) and Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith.

Find more from Dr. Groothuis at www.DouglasGroothuis.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Truth Tribe, Douglas Groothuis, a professor of worldview and apologetics, discusses common myths about apologetics. He argues that God is not above logic, referencing John 1:1-3, and that Jesus used reason in His ministry, as seen in Matthew 22. Groothuis refutes the idea that Paul failed at the Areopagus, emphasizing the philosophical nature of his address. He clarifies that apologetics is not hypocritical judgment but a critique of non-Christian worldviews. Groothuis also asserts that the gospel must be communicated through words, not just actions, to convey its intellectual content. 

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is a Professor of Philosophy at Denver Seminary and the author of nineteen books, including Fire in the Streets (a critique of critical race theory or wokeness) and Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith.

Find more from Dr. Groothuis at www.DouglasGroothuis.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Truth Tribe, Dr. Groothuis discusses the perils of self-promotion and the pursuit of influence in the digital age, referencing social critic Christine Rosen's term "ego casting." He emphasizes the importance of truth, character, and humility in teaching and writing, citing biblical passages and urging caution against vain glory. Groothuis advocates for humility, integrity, and the strategic dissemination of knowledge for the glory of God. He reflects on his own career, highlighting his contributions through teaching, writing, and public speaking, and concludes with a call to action for others to join in spreading the Christian worldview.

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In this episode of Truth Tribe, Dr. Groothuis discusses the philosophical presuppositions necessary for the effective implementation of the Great Commission. He outlines five essential claims: correspondence view of truth, the existence of propositions, the law of noncontradiction, and objective meaning and authorial intent. Dr. Groothuis emphasizes that without these foundational principles, the Christian message risks becoming arbitrary and unknowable. He calls for Christians to understand and defend these philosophical underpinnings to effectively spread the gospel.

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The Great Commission, as articulated in Matthew 28:18-20, serves as a fundamental mandate for Christians to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ and make disciples of all nations. However, fulfilling this commission is not merely a matter of zeal or intention; it requires a solid foundation of philosophical truths. Dr. Groothuis outlines several key philosophical concepts essential for effectively carrying out the Great Commission, including the correspondence view of truth, the existence of propositions, and the law of non-contradiction.

1. The Correspondence View of Truth

The correspondence view of truth posits that a statement is true if and only if it corresponds to reality. This concept is crucial for Christianity, which is based on objective truths revealed in history. For instance, Jesus claimed to be "the Way, the Truth, and the Life" (John 14:6), indicating that His teachings are grounded in reality rather than mere subjective opinions. The Apostle Paul reinforces this view in 1 Corinthians 15, where he discusses the resurrection of Jesus. He argues that if Christ has not been raised, then Christian preaching and faith are rendered useless. This highlights the importance of truth being anchored in reality; without it, the entire Christian message collapses.

2. The Existence of Propositions

Propositions are the meanings behind declarative sentences and are essential for coherent thought and communication. Dr. Groothuis emphasizes that without propositions, language and thought fall into incoherence, undermining the knowledge necessary for fulfilling the Great Commission. For example, the statements "Jesus is Lord" and "The Lord is Jesus alone" express the same proposition despite using different words. The immaterial nature of propositions is vital because it allows for the communication of truth across different languages and contexts. If propositions did not exist, there would be no reliable way to convey or affirm the truths of the Christian faith, making it impossible to effectively share the Gospel.

3. The Law of Non-Contradiction

The law of non-contradiction is a fundamental principle in logic that states that contradictory statements cannot both be true at the same time and in the same sense. Dr. Groothuis explains that this law serves as a necessary test for all truth claims. If a truth claim passes this test, it may be true; if it fails, it must be false. This principle is particularly relevant when discussing the resurrection of Jesus. If Jesus rose from the dead, then it is false to claim that He did not. Without the law of non-contradiction, meaningful communication and thought would be impossible, as contradictory claims could both be accepted as true, leading to confusion and a lack of knowledge.

Conclusion

In summary, the Great Commission requires a robust philosophical foundation to ensure that the message of Christianity is communicated effectively and truthfully. The correspondence view of truth, the existence of propositions, and the law of non-contradiction are essential components that support the integrity of the Christian message. By understanding and applying these philosophical truths, Christians can better fulfill their calling to make disciples and share the teachings of Jesus with the world.

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is a Professor of Philosophy at Denver Seminary and the author of nineteen books, including Fire in the Streets (a critique of critical race theory or wokeness) and Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith.

Find more from Dr. Groothuis at www.DouglasGroothuis.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We are sharing an episode of the Case for Life podcast, in which host Scott Klusendorf interviews Dr. Groothuis about his book "Fire in the Streets," which provides a comprehensive examination of critical race theory and its impact on contemporary society, often referred to as "wokeness."

Definition of Critical Race Theory

Dr. Groothuis defines critical race theory as an ideology rooted in neo-Marxism or cultural Marxism. It posits that society is divided into oppressors and the oppressed, with race being a primary factor in this dichotomy. According to CRT, the white race is seen as the oppressor, while people of color are viewed as the oppressed. This oversimplification fails to account for the complexities of individual experiences and achievements, particularly in the case of high-achieving individuals from minority backgrounds, such as many Asians in the United States.

Historical Context of Critical Race Theory

The rise of critical race theory can be traced back to the civil rights movement, but it has evolved into a more radical ideology that seeks to dismantle the existing social order rather than reform it. Dr. Groothuis highlights that figures like Derrick Bell and Kimberly Crenshaw have been influential in shaping CRT, which argues that systemic racism is ingrained in American society and institutions. This perspective contrasts sharply with the views of civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., who called for adherence to America's founding principles of equality and justice.

Standpoint Epistemology

A significant aspect of the discussion is the concept of standpoint epistemology, which suggests that knowledge and truth are determined by one's social identity, particularly for those who are oppressed. Dr. Groothuis warns that this perspective can lead to a dangerous relativism where the experiences of the oppressed are seen as the ultimate authority on truth. While it is essential to listen to marginalized voices, it does not grant them exclusive rights to define truth or knowledge in all contexts.

The Role of Free Speech

The podcast also addresses the implications of CRT on free speech. Dr. Grothuis argues that CRT is inherently hostile to free expression, as it often dismisses the viewpoints of those deemed part of the oppressor class. This creates an environment where dialogue is stifled, and only certain narratives are allowed to dominate the conversation. The idea that reason and logic can be tools of oppression further complicates discussions, as it undermines the foundation of rational discourse.

What Is Intersectionality?

Intersectionality, a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, is another critical concept discussed in the episode. It refers to the overlapping social identities that contribute to an individual's experience of oppression. For example, a Black woman may be seen as triply oppressed due to her race, gender, and sexual orientation. However, Dr. Groothuis emphasizes that this does not make her an expert on all issues related to those identities, and it does not negate the need for objective analysis and discussion.

Implications for the Pro-Life Movement

Finally, the conversation touches on the implications of critical race theory for the pro-life movement. Dr. Groothuis points out that if one accepts the premise of CRT, the unborn can be viewed as part of the oppressed class, particularly in light of the disproportionate rates of abortion among Black women. This perspective challenges the narrative that prioritizes bodily autonomy over the rights of the unborn, suggesting that a true commitment to justice would involve advocating for the lives of all individuals, including those yet to be born.

Conclusion

The podcast episode with Dr. Groothuis provides a thorough examination of critical race theory and its implications for society, free speech, and the pro-life movement. By understanding these concepts, listeners are better equipped to engage in meaningful discussions about race, justice, and the moral principles that underpin American society.

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is a Professor of Philosophy at Denver Seminary and the author of nineteen books, including Fire in the Streets (a critique of critical race theory or wokeness) and Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith.

Find more from Dr. Groothuis at www.DouglasGroothuis.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We're glad to share this crossover episode of THE CHARGE with Dennis Metzler. In this episode, Dennis and Doug sit down and discuss the moral argument for the existence of God, a key aspect of natural theology, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of this philosophical topic. Join Dennis and Dr. Grothuis for an insightful discussion on the intersection of morality and belief in God.

The moral argument for God is a philosophical position that asserts the existence of objective moral values, which are best explained by the presence of a personal, transcendent God. This argument stands in contrast to moral relativism and atheistic frameworks, which struggle to provide a satisfactory foundation for morality.

Objective Moral Values

At the heart of the moral argument is the assertion that objective moral truths exist. Dr. Groothuis emphasizes that statements such as "it is always wrong to torture the innocent for pleasure" are not merely subjective opinions but are necessarily true. This leads to the first stage of the argument, which critiques moral relativism. Moral relativism posits that moral values are determined by cultural consensus or individual preferences, suggesting that what is deemed right or wrong can vary from one culture or person to another.

Critique of Moral Relativism

Dr. Groothuis identifies several significant problems with moral relativism. One major issue is that cultures can and do make moral mistakes. For instance, the historical justification of slavery by certain cultures demonstrates that cultural consensus is not a reliable measure of moral truth. If a culture endorses a practice that is fundamentally wrong, such as slavery, it cannot be justified merely because it is accepted by that culture. This leads to the conclusion that there must be some objective standard by which to judge moral actions, which moral relativism fails to provide.

Furthermore, Dr. Groothuis argues that if morality is entirely relative to individual or cultural perspectives, it ultimately leads to nihilism—the belief that nothing has any ultimate value. This progression from cultural relativism to individual relativism and then to nihilism illustrates the inadequacy of a relativistic framework for grounding moral values.

The Role of a Personal God

In contrast to moral relativism, the moral argument posits that a personal, transcendent God is the best explanation for the existence of objective moral values. Grothuis articulates this in a deductive format:

1. If a personal God does not exist, then objective moral values do not exist.

2. Objective moral values do exist.

3. Therefore, a personal God exists.

This structure highlights that the existence of objective moral values necessitates a moral lawgiver—God—who provides a foundation for these values. Dr. Groothuis argues that without God, moral truths cannot be adequately explained. Atheistic frameworks, such as those that attempt to derive morality from evolutionary processes, fail to establish a basis for moral obligation or meaning. Simply put, survival does not equate to moral goodness, and one cannot derive an "ought" from an "is."

Atheistic Moral Realism

Some atheists may argue for a form of moral realism, claiming that objective moral truths exist independently of God. However, Dr. Groothuis critiques this position by stating that it presents a bizarre ontology. If moral truths exist in a godless universe, they are abstract and disconnected from any purpose or meaning. This raises the question of how humans, who are not designed to know these truths, can access them. The lack of a personal relationship with a moral authority undermines the concept of moral obligation, which is essential for a coherent moral framework.

Conclusion

In summary, the moral argument for God asserts that objective moral values exist and are best explained by the existence of a personal, transcendent God. This argument effectively counters moral relativism and atheistic frameworks, which struggle to provide a solid foundation for morality. By positing that God is the source of moral truth, the moral argument offers a compelling explanation for why certain actions are universally recognized as right or wrong, thus affirming the necessity of a divine moral lawgiver in understanding the nature of morality.

For more from Dr. Groothuis, visit DouglasGroothuis.com.

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The Relationship Between Philosophy and Christianity

In today's episode of Truth Tribe, Dr. Groothuis delves into the intricate relationship between philosophy and Christianity, particularly through the lens of various philosophical thinkers from ancient Greece to modern times.

Philosophy as the Study of Reality

Dr. Groothuis begins by defining philosophy as the study of reality, emphasizing its role in addressing fundamental questions about existence, meaning, and the good life. This critical inquiry is intrinsic to human nature, as individuals seek to understand their origins, purpose, and destiny. Philosophy encourages the use of reason and structured arguments to explore these ultimate issues, aligning with the Christian pursuit of truth.

The Presocratics and the Search for Truth

The conversation highlights the Presocratic philosophers, such as Thales and Heraclitus, who sought to explain the nature of reality without relying on mythology. Their quest for a singular truth that underpins all existence laid the groundwork for later philosophical thought, including Christian philosophy. The desire for objective truth resonates with the Christian worldview, which posits that God is the ultimate source of truth and meaning.

Socrates and the Examination of Life

Socrates, a pivotal figure in Western philosophy, is noted for his assertion that "the unexamined life is not worth living." This idea aligns with Christian thought, which encourages believers to engage deeply with their faith and the moral implications of their actions. Socrates' method of questioning and critical thinking serves as a model for Christians to explore their beliefs and understand the nature of God and morality.

The Influence of Plato and Aristotle

Plato's theory of forms introduces the concept of an immaterial realm that transcends the physical world, suggesting that true knowledge comes from understanding these eternal forms. While there are overlaps between Platonic thought and Christianity, such as the belief in a higher reality, Dr. Grutais points out significant differences, particularly regarding the nature of creation and the goodness of the material world. Aristotle, on the other hand, emphasizes empirical observation and the importance of the natural world, which can complement a Christian understanding of God's creation.

Augustine's Integration of Philosophy and Faith

St. Augustine emerges as a crucial figure in the synthesis of philosophy and Christian theology. His reflections in "The Confessions" illustrate the interplay between his philosophical inquiries and personal experiences of sin and redemption. Augustine's famous assertion that "our hearts are restless until they rest in you" encapsulates the Christian belief that true fulfillment is found in a relationship with God. His work demonstrates how philosophical analysis can deepen one's understanding of faith.

The Modern Philosophical Landscape

Moving into the modern era, figures like René Descartes and Blaise Pascal further explore the relationship between reason and faith. Descartes' method of doubt and his famous conclusion, "I think, therefore I am," highlight the importance of rational inquiry while also acknowledging the limitations of human understanding. Pascal, known for his insights into the human condition, emphasizes the need for both reason and intuition in understanding God, famously stating that "the heart has its reasons that reason knows nothing of."

Kierkegaard's Existential Approach

Finally, Søren Kierkegaard's existential philosophy challenges the compatibility of faith and reason. While he advocates for a passionate, subjective engagement with truth, he also critiques the notion of faith as a mere leap into the unknown. Kierkegaard's focus on the individual's relationship with God resonates with the Christian emphasis on personal faith and the transformative power of Christ.

Conclusion

Philosophy and Christianity are deeply intertwined, with each philosophical thinker contributing to the ongoing dialogue about truth, existence, and the nature of God. From the ancient Greeks to modern philosophers, the quest for understanding reality continues to shape Christian thought, encouraging believers to engage critically with their faith and the world around them.

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Introduction to the New Age Movement

The New Age movement is characterized by a belief in a transformative period in history where ancient wisdom is being rediscovered. This worldview posits that God is synonymous with the universe and that individuals are inherently divine, needing only to reach a higher state of consciousness to realize this divinity within themselves. The movement emphasizes personal and global transformation through practices such as meditation and yoga, while denying the traditional Christian distinction between the Creator and creation.

Key Beliefs of the New Age

1. Eclectic Spirituality: The New Age movement is an amalgamation of various spiritual beliefs, primarily drawing from Eastern religions like Hinduism and Buddhism. It often incorporates elements of astrology, mysticism, and Western occultism, creating a unique blend that appeals to modern sensibilities.

2. Pantheistic Monism: Central to New Age thought is the concept of pantheistic monism, which asserts that everything is divine and interconnected. This belief rejects the notion of a personal God and instead promotes the idea that all existence is one unified reality.

3. Rejection of Traditional Christianity: The New Age movement fundamentally opposes the Christian view of Jesus as the sole mediator between God and humanity. Instead, it presents Jesus as one of many spiritual teachers or gurus who supposedly taught principles aligned with pantheistic monism.

The New Age Jesus

In the New Age framework, Jesus is not recognized as God incarnate or the Savior who atoned for humanity's sins. Instead, he is viewed as a "way-shower" or an example of how to achieve enlightenment. This radical reinterpretation of Jesus strips him of his authority and significance as presented in the Bible.

Characteristics of the New Age Jesus:

• Not the Only Mediator: Unlike the biblical portrayal of Jesus as the only mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5), the New Age Jesus is seen as one of many spiritual guides.

• Denial of Atonement: New Age beliefs often deny the substitutionary atonement of Christ, which is central to Christian doctrine. Some adherents even claim that Jesus did not die on the cross, suggesting alternative narratives about his life and teachings.

• Integration with Other Spiritual Figures: The New Age Jesus is often placed on the same level as figures like Buddha or other spiritual leaders, diluting his unique role in Christianity.

The Influence of New Age Thought

The New Age movement has permeated mainstream culture, often without being explicitly labeled as such. Concepts from New Age philosophy can be found in popular media, literature, and even self-help teachings. For instance, the success of books like "The Da Vinci Code" and the teachings of figures like Deepak Chopra illustrates how New Age ideas have been woven into the fabric of contemporary thought.

Cultural Impact:

• Therapeutic Focus: New Age teachings often emphasize self-improvement and personal empowerment, promoting the idea that individuals can manifest their reality through positive thinking and visualization. This contrasts sharply with the biblical call to repentance and reliance on God's grace.

• Reincarnation vs. Resurrection: The New Age belief in reincarnation, where souls are reborn in different forms until they achieve enlightenment, stands in stark opposition to the Christian doctrine of resurrection, which teaches that individuals are raised once for eternal judgment (Hebrews 9:27).

Conclusion

The New Age movement presents a worldview that is fundamentally at odds with traditional Christianity. By redefining Jesus and promoting a pantheistic understanding of divinity, it seeks to create a spiritual framework that appeals to modern sensibilities while undermining the core tenets of the Christian faith. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for Christians as they navigate a culture increasingly influenced by New Age philosophies.

In summary, the New Age movement's reinterpretation of Jesus and its eclectic spiritual beliefs highlight the need for a clear understanding of biblical teachings and Christianity's unique claims regarding the nature and work of Jesus Christ.

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In this cross-promotional episode, we are sharing an episode of Doable Discipleship, in which Dr. Groothuis sits down with Pastor Jason Wieland to talk about his book, World Religions in Seven Sentences. They discuss why Christians should learn about other world religions and then look at three religions or thoughts discussed in the book: Atheism, Judaism, and Islam. The episode also discusses the rise of “Apathy-ism” and the growing movement of people who don’t want to give any time or energy to thinking about spiritual matters at all.

3 Key Insights:

1. Understanding Other Religions: Dr. Grothuis emphasized the importance of Christians understanding other world religions. In a diverse and pluralistic world, it is crucial to have knowledge and respect for the beliefs of others. By learning about different faiths, we can better communicate the message of Christianity and engage in meaningful conversations with people of various religious backgrounds.

2. Apologetics and Intellectual Health: Dr. Grothuis highlighted the significance of pursuing intellectual health and engaging in apologetics. He encouraged listeners to seek truth through reason, evidence, and Scripture. By renewing our minds and deepening our understanding of the Christian worldview, we can confidently navigate questions and doubts while strengthening our faith.

3. Respectful Dialogue and Engagement: Lastly, Dr. Grothuis emphasized the importance of respectful dialogue and engagement with individuals of different faiths. By approaching conversations with kindness, respect, and a willingness to listen, we can build bridges, foster understanding, and share the love of Christ effectively.

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When society's foundations are being destroyed, it can be tempting for the righteous to flee, hide, or blend in with the world. However, as Dr. Groothuis shares today, the righteous should not succumb to these temptations. Instead, they should seek refuge in the Lord and stand firm on the rock of Jesus Christ.

In the face of a crumbling culture, it is crucial that we learn to trust in God's sovereignty and righteousness. Just as David declared in Psalm 11, "In the Lord I take refuge," the righteous are called to place their trust in God's unwavering holiness and authority. This trust in God's character allows them to remain steadfast in their faith and convictions, even when the world around them is in chaos.

6 Responses Christians Should Have to the Destruction of Foundations in Society:

1. Lament and Challenge: The speaker encourages listeners to lament the prospering of ungodliness in culture while also challenging them to take action and uphold Christian faith in the midst of societal decline.

2. Recognizing the Signs of Decay: The speaker highlights various societal issues such as school shootings, terrorism, abortion, and the breakdown of traditional family structures as indicators of the crumbling foundations in American culture.

3. Standing Firm in Faith: Despite the challenges and moral decay, the speaker emphasizes the need for believers to stand firm in their faith, seek God's face, and trust in His righteous judgment.

4. Avoiding Complacency and Blending In: The speaker warns against complacency, blending in with worldly trends, and compromising on biblical principles in the face of societal pressure.

5. Taking Action: The episode calls for believers to actively engage in seeking the welfare of their communities, being salt and light in a world that is increasingly moving towards depravity.

6. Building on a Solid Foundation: Drawing from biblical teachings, the speaker emphasizes the importance of building one's life on the rock of Jesus Christ, standing as a fixed point amidst a society rushing towards moral decay.

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In this episode, Dr. Groothuis delves into the concept that all truth is God's truth, which is why, as Christians, we can still learn from non-Christian thinkers, as in our examples today of Socrates and Aristotle. As followers of Christ, we should develop a godly intellect and place our entire being under the lordship of Christ. This includes loving God with our heart, soul, strength, and mind and loving our neighbor as ourselves.

Dr Groothuis argues against the dichotomy between secular and sacred knowledge, advocating instead for a unified view of truth. Any true statement about reality must align with every other true statement, whether it pertains to religion, science, theology, or philosophy. Christianity makes several truth claims about reality, such as the existence of God, the Trinity, the Incarnation, and the inspiration of the Scriptures, which are not merely symbolic but refer to actual truths.

He addresses the misconception that philosophy is unnecessary for Christians, explaining that philosophy involves thinking well about significant matters such as our identity, purpose, and moral principles. He also advocates for the pursuit of knowledge, aiming for justified true beliefs rather than mere opinions or feelings.

The episode also explores the concept of general revelation, where God makes some truths knowable without the Bible, and how this relates to the development of science and technology. Dr Groothuis discusses Paul's experience in Athens, where he engaged with Stoic and Epicurean philosophers, recognizing truth within their worldviews while also critiquing their beliefs.

He then focuses on Socrates and Aristotle, examining their contributions to philosophy and how their ideas can aid in Christian apologetics. Socrates' call to an examined life and Aristotle's assertion that all men desire to know are highlighted as valuable insights for intellectual engagement and the pursuit of truth.

Finally, Dr Groothuis emphasizes the importance of developing a Christian worldview, loving God and our neighbor with all our being, and employing logic and reason to understand, defend, and apply the Christian faith. Dr Groothuis shares his personal journey of gaining intellectual confidence through Francis Schaeffer's works and how this led me to pursue philosophy without fear.

In conclusion, Dr Groothuis encourages listeners to be intellectually rigorous and confident in their faith, as Christianity is true, rational, and pertinent to all aspects of life.

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In this episode, I share a conversation I had on Aaron Shamp's show, the Filter Podcast. You can check out his show on YouTube.

Here are three key takeaways from our insightful conversation:

1. Dangers of Meditation: I highlight the potential dangers of meditation practices rooted in Eastern religions like Hinduism and Buddhism, emphasizing that these practices aim to detach individuals from their critical thinking and ultimately lead to a denial of self and embodiment. It's crucial to understand the spiritual implications of these practices and approach them with caution.

2. Biblical Meditation vs. Eastern Practices: We delve into the differences between biblical meditation and Eastern meditation. While biblical meditation focuses on savoring and dwelling on truth found in Scripture, Eastern practices often involve emptying the mind and detaching from the physical world. Understanding these distinctions is essential for maintaining a solid spiritual foundation.

3. Spiritual Warfare and Discernment: We discussed the importance of spiritual warfare and discernment in the face of New Age ideologies. Dr. Grotheis emphasized the need to put on the full armor of God, rely on the power of the Spirit, and stay rooted in the truth of Christ to combat darkness and deception. It's crucial to be vigilant and grounded in biblical principles to navigate spiritual challenges effectively.

I encourage you to listen to the full episode for a deeper dive into these topics and gain valuable insights on living with biblical clarity in today's culture. Let's equip ourselves with knowledge and discernment to face the complexities of our world with courage and faith.

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In this episode of Truth Tribe, Dr. Groothuis delves into the topic of Critical Theory and Christian Discernment, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's thinking with Christ. Dr Groothuis provides a Christian perspective on various ideologies such as the New Age movement, postmodernism, and Islam. The host shares his journey of addressing critical theory, sparked by the events of 2020 in the United States, and his efforts to explain this complex issue through talks and articles. Tune in to gain insight into navigating critical theory through a Christian lens.

As discussed in the podcast episode, the Christian worldview offers a comprehensive framework for understanding various aspects of life that critical theory does not adequately address.

Understanding Good and Evil:

• Christian Perspective: The Christian worldview acknowledges the existence of good and evil as inherent aspects of the human condition. It recognizes that all individuals are capable of both good and evil due to the presence of sin in the world.
• Critical Theory Perspective: Critical theory tends to view society as divided into oppressors and oppressed, focusing on power dynamics rather than the inherent moral nature of individuals. It often simplifies complex moral issues into categories of privilege and disadvantage.

Understanding Race:

• Christian Perspective: Christianity teaches that all human beings are created in the image and likeness of God, emphasizing the inherent value and dignity of every individual regardless of race. It promotes unity and equality among all races.
• Critical Theory Perspective: Critical theory, particularly critical race theory, emphasizes power dynamics based on race, viewing society through the lens of oppressors and oppressed. It often perpetuates a divisive narrative that focuses on racial conflict rather than unity.

Understanding Sexual Morality:

• Christian Perspective: The Christian worldview upholds a clear standard of sexual morality based on the biblical teachings of male and female created in God's image, heterosexual monogamy within marriage, and the sanctity of human sexuality.
• Critical Theory Perspective: Critical theory challenges traditional sexual ethics, promoting a fluid approach to gender identity and sexual orientation. It questions objective moral standards and advocates for personal choice and orientation over biblical principles.

In essence, the Christian worldview provides a holistic understanding of good and evil, race, and sexual morality rooted in the belief in an objective truth revealed through Scripture. It offers a moral compass and ethical framework that transcends societal constructs and provides a foundation for addressing complex issues in a way that promotes unity, justice, and compassion.

For more on this topic, see Douglas Groothuis, Fire in the Streets (Salem, 2022).

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Exploring the intersection of apologetics and art, this episode of Truth Tribe delves into the importance of sharing the gospel in a world filled with diverse cultural expressions. Dr. Groothuis explains that practicing apologetics requires competence, confidence, courage, compassion, and creativity. It’s important to use these skills and strategies, just as an artist utilizes the colors on his palette.

Competence in apologetics involves a deep understanding of the Christian worldview, proficiency in Scripture, and the ability to engage with diverse worldviews and cultural perspectives. Apologists must be well-prepared, knowledgeable, and capable of articulating their beliefs in a compelling and rational manner.

Confidence is another essential aspect of apologetics. Apologists need to have confidence in the truth of Christianity and in their ability to effectively communicate and defend their faith. This confidence stems from a solid foundation in scripture, a profound understanding of theology, and a willingness to address challenging questions and objections.

Courage is crucial in apologetics, especially in a secular and skeptical society. Apologists may encounter criticism, skepticism, and hostility when defending Christianity. It takes courage to stand firm in one's beliefs, engage in difficult conversations, and address challenging topics with grace and conviction.

Compassion is a fundamental element of apologetics. Apologists should approach interactions with empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire for meaningful dialogue. Compassion enables apologists to connect with others on a personal level, listen to their perspectives, and respond with kindness and respect.

Creativity is also emphasized as a key component of apologetics. Just as an artist uses different colors on a palette to create a masterpiece, apologists can employ various approaches, methods, and strategies to communicate the message of Christianity effectively. Creativity in apologetics involves utilizing different forms of media, engaging with art and culture, and presenting the Christian faith in a compelling and relevant manner.

By using all the colors on the apologist's palette, Christians can effectively defend and promote Christianity in a pluralistic and changing world.

For more on apologetics, see Douglas Groothuis, Christian Apologetics, 2nd ed (InterVarsity, 2022).

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In this episode of Truth Tribe, Dr. Groothuis discusses an article about philosopher James K.A. Smith and his views on moving beyond cultural polarization through mysticism. Smith argues that over-identification with beliefs fuels polarization and suggests that the church needs mystics rather than more beliefs or better theology. The episode delves into Smith's speech at a conference and challenges his perspective along the way.

Here are three key takeaways from this thought-provoking discussion:

1. The Importance of Knowledge and Reason:  Knowledge, justified true beliefs, and truth are essential in our pursuit of understanding God, social reform, and engaging with false ideologies. It's crucial to use reason and comprehension to navigate complex issues effectively.

2. The Role of Humility in Seeking Truth: While Smith advocates for relinquishing the desire for knowledge and comprehension, Dr. Groothuis emphasizes the importance of humility based on knowledge. Understanding the holiness of God, the fallibility of humans, and the need for Christ's redemptive work leads to true humility. It's not about forsaking reason but about approaching truth with a humble heart.

3. The Dangers of Mysticism Without Knowledge: Dr. Groothuis warns against the deceptive allure of mystical philosophies that undermine the pursuit of truth and godliness. While mysticism may sound profound, it can lead to a lack of progress in social reform and a disconnect from the foundational truths found in Scripture. Embracing knowledge and reason is essential for personal growth and positive societal change.

I invite you to listen to the full episode to explore these important topics in depth. Let's continue the conversation on seeking truth through reason and evidence in a world filled with polarization and conflicting ideologies. Your thoughts and insights are always welcome!

 For more from Dr. Groothuis, visit  DouglasGroothuis.com.

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In this episode, Dr. Doug Groothuis delves into the teachings of Richard Rohr, a key figure in the Enneagram movement. Dr. Grothuis, an experienced Christian apologist, explores Rohr's worldview and theology to determine if they align with historical biblical Christianity. Listeners are taken on a journey to understand whether Rohr's beliefs about reality and biblical truth reflect the Christ of the Bible or a distorted version. Dr. Grothuis draws from his background in discernment, offering insights into the potential pitfalls of following teachings that may not be in line with traditional Christian doctrines.

Testing the spirits and discerning false teachings is crucial in maintaining a solid foundation in biblical truth. As discussed in the podcast episode, the Apostle John in 1 John 4:1-4 warns believers not to believe every spirit but to test them to see if they are from God. This caution is essential because there are many false prophets and teachings in the world.

The episode emphasizes the importance of comparing teachings to the truths found in the Bible. It highlights the need to have a deep knowledge of scripture to discern false teachings effectively. The transcript mentions various biblical passages that warn about false prophets, false apostles, and deceitful workers who may masquerade as messengers of Christ. By testing teachings against the Word of God, believers can identify discrepancies and falsehoods.

Furthermore, the episode stresses the significance of understanding the true doctrine of God, Christ, and salvation to recognize counterfeit teachings. By knowing the authentic biblical teachings, individuals can easily spot false doctrines that deviate from Christianity's core beliefs.

Richard Rohr's worldview and theology significantly deviate from historical biblical Christianity. One of the key deviations is Rohr's denial of the fundamental doctrine of the creator-creation distinction. In historical biblical Christianity, there is a clear metaphysical distinction between the eternal, self-existent Creator and the finite creation. However, Rohr, influenced by pantheistic or panentheistic beliefs, blurs this distinction by suggesting that everything is divine or that the world itself is divine. This denial of the creator-creation distinction undermines the core biblical understanding of God as the sovereign Creator distinct from His creation.

Furthermore, Richard Rohr's teachings also challenge the essential doctrine of atonement through Christ. In traditional biblical Christianity, the death of Jesus Christ on the cross is central to the redemption and reconciliation of humanity with God. Christ's sacrificial death is understood as the atoning sacrifice for human sin, demonstrating God's love and justice. However, Rohr's theology dismisses the significance of Christ's death as a necessary act to rectify the problem of human sin. He downplays the concept of Christ's death as a substitutionary sacrifice required by God's offended justice, which is a core tenet of historical biblical Christianity.

Rohr's teachings also distort the understanding of Jesus Christ himself. He misinterprets biblical passages, such as John 14:6, where Jesus unequivocally states, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Rohr attempts to reinterpret this to fit his universalist perspective, suggesting that it refers to a universal essence rather than the person of Jesus Christ. This misinterpretation undermines the unique role of Jesus as the only way to salvation, as emphasized in traditional Christian doctrine.

In conclusion, Richard Rohr's theology presents a distorted version of historical biblical Christianity by denying key doctrines such as the creator-creation distinction and the atonement through Christ. His teachings reflect a syncretistic approach that blends elements of various non-Christian worldviews with Christian terminology, leading to a departure from the core beliefs and teachings of traditional Christianity.

To combat false teachings like those of Richard Rohr, it is crucial to have a strong foundation in biblical knowledge, active participation in a Bible-believing church, and reliance on the Holy Spirit for discernment. Dr. Doug Groteis emphasizes the importance of knowing and studying the Bible to discern false teachings. He highlights the need to be familiar with the Scriptures to recognize when teachings deviate from biblical truths. By understanding the true doctrine of God, Christ, and salvation, individuals can spot counterfeit teachings that distort these foundational beliefs.

For more on Rohr, see Douglas Groothuis, “A Heretic’s Christ, a False Salvation,” Christian Research Journal at equip.org. 

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Come let us reason together, says the Lord—Isaiah 1:18

I. The Imperative to Do Apologetics

A. Defend Christianity as objective true, compellingly rational, and existentially pertinent to all of life (1 Peter 3:15)

B. Consider apologetic method, but don’t fixate on it. Know your epistemology!

C. Fideism: defense by not engaging in the battle

1. Cannot dispense with logic and keep your head

2. Scripture challenges us to engage apologetically (chapter 2)

3. History is replete with good apologists: Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, Pascal, C.S. Lewis, etc.

D. Take it to the streets: apologetics without works is dead (James 2)

II. The Laws of Logic

A. God and logic (John 1:1-2)

B. Noncontradiction: A cannot be non-A

1. To deny it, is to affirm it: “The law is false.”

2. Light-particle duality (physics) does not break it

3. Existential conflict is not a violation of the law

C. Excluded middle: Either A or non-A

1. Jesus is Lord or not

2. Buddha was enlightened or not

3. Things being “gray” does not refute excluded middle

D. Bivalence: statements are true or false; not neither, not both
What if sentences have many meanings? That is a matter of interpretation (epistemology), not truth or falsity

E. Identity: A=A

1. Used to refute physicalism about mind and brain (more in chapter 17)

2. “I’m not myself today” does not break it

F. Forms of argument: induction, deduction, abduction (best explanation); logical fallacies (ad hominem, circular reasoning, false dichotomy, etc.)

III. Worldview Hypothesis Evaluation

A. Christianity as a hypothesis or worldview

B. Build a cumulative case using many lines of argument

1. Biblical basis for apologetics
2. Objective truth is real and knowable
3. Explain the Christian worldview
4. Theistic arguments: cosmological, design, moral, ontological, religious experience
5. Reliability of the Bible
6. Identity of Jesus Christ: claims, credentials, achievements

C. Present the case carefully, point by point

1. Know the Christian worldview (chapter 4)

2. Know what the worldview rivals are: live hypotheses

3. Know the plausibility structure of your culture (Peter Berger, A Rumor of Angels)

4. Present Christian worldview as intellectually superior to other by testing it according to rational, objective criteria

5. Do not make the criteria internal to Christianity; if so, no apologetics is possible, because you can have no common ground.

D. Constructive or positive apologetics: Arguments in support of Christian theism

E. Two kinds of negative apologetics

1. Rebut, defeat attacks on Christianity

2. Show the rational weaknesses in other worldviews

IV. Criteria for Worldview Evaluation: Play Fair, Play Smart

A. This is epistemology: our philosophy of knowledge

1. Truth: correspondence view

2. Knowledge: justified true belief (internalism)

B. Criteria are applied in other areas of life and are intuitively credible

C. The eight criteria for worldview assessment (pages 53-60)

1. Should explain things adequately without excessive opacity

2. Internal logical consistency

3. Coherence: the web of beliefs is consistent
4. Factual adequacy: history, science, human experience

5. Existential viability (not pragmatic theory of truth; see chapter 6)

6. Intellectual, cultural fecundity (fruitfulness)

7. No radical ad hoc adjustment of the worldview

8. Simpler explanations are preferred to complex ones, all things being equal

V. The Limits of Apologetics

A. Bible itself can be difficult to explain and defend; be patient; study well

Bear in mind that our Lord’s patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction—2 Peter 3:15-16

B. Our weaknesses as sinners: we may hold the truth poorly

Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers—1 Timothy 4:16.

C. God’s providence may convert people with or without the kind of apologetics we can offer

Resources

1. Kenneth Boa, Robert Bowman, Faith Has it’s Reasons, 2nd ed. (InterVarsity Press, 2006).
2. Steven Cowan, ed., Five Views of Apologetics (Zondervan, 2000).
3. Douglas Groothuis, Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith (InterVarsity Press, 2011). Also translated into Korean, 2015 by Christian Literature Center, Seoul, Korea.
4. Douglas Groothuis, Truth Decay: Defending Christianity Against the Challenge of Postmodernism (InterVarsity Press, 2000).
5. Os Guinness, Fool’s Talk: Recovering the Christian Art of Persuasion (InterVarsity Press, 2015).
6. Gordon Lewis, Testing Christianity’s Truth Claims (orig. pub., 1976; University Press of America).
7. Brian Morely, Mapping Apologetics (InterVarsity Press, 2015).

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Is God hidden? The debate rages on. From Pascal to Nietzsche, philosophers have grappled with the idea of divine hiddenness. But could self-deception play a role in why some find it hard to see God's presence? In this episode of Truth Tribe, I explore the concept of self-deception and how it may influence our perception of God's existence. Could our desires and motivations be clouding our ability to see the evidence around us?

The fool says in their heart, “There is no God’ (Psalm 14:1).

If I saw no sign [in nature] of Divinity I should decide on a negative solution: if I saw signs of a Creator everywhere, I should peacefully settle down in faith. But, seeing too much to deny and not enough to affirm, I am in a pitiful state, where I have wished a hundred times over that, if there is a God supporting nature, she should unequivocally proclaim him, and that, if the signs in nature are deceptive, they should be completely erased; that nature should say all or nothing so that I could see what course I ought to follow.[1] - Voice of a skeptic in Pascal’s Pensées.

Here are three key takeaways from this thought-provoking episode:

1. The Existence of Honest Atheists: The episode discusses the argument that if God truly exists as all-good and all-powerful, there would be no honest atheists. However, the conversation delves into the idea that there are indeed honest atheists who are rationally justified in their unbelief. This challenges the notion that all atheists are simply in denial.

2. The Logic of Self-Deception: One of the fascinating points raised in the episode is the concept of self-deception. It explores how individuals may deny the evidence for God due to various motivations, desires for autonomy, and the pursuit of alternative idols. The discussion sheds light on the psychological and philosophical aspects of self-deception in the context of belief in God.

3. Prudence in Seeking God: Despite the perceived hiddenness of God, the episode emphasizes the importance of prudence in seeking God. Drawing from Pascal's wager, the idea that there is much to gain by believing in God and potentially much to lose by not believing is highlighted. The episode encourages listeners to continue seeking God, even in moments when His presence may seem elusive.

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Is it okay for Christians to judge other people? In some Bible passages, it seems like there is a place for judgment; in other parts of Scripture, not so much. Dr. Groothuis emphasizes the importance of evaluating oneself against the standard of Scripture before passing judgment on others. The key principle highlighted is to first reflect on one's actions, attitudes, and beliefs in order to cultivate humility and ensure that judgments are made with love and grace.

Drawing from Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, the speaker instructs followers to address their own faults before pointing out those of others. This analogy stresses the need for self-awareness and self-correction before engaging in judgment. By acknowledging personal shortcomings, individuals can approach others with empathy, understanding, and humility.

Judging Jesus’ Way: Matthew 7:1-5
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
3 Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye." 

I.    Who Are Christians in the World?

How do we represent God and the gospel today? How are we judged by the watching world? Judicious or censorious? Measured in judgment or reactive? Wise or foolish?

II.    Some Judgments Against Christians

A.    They are too judgmental
B.    They are legalistic
C.    They are high and mighty
D.    They are holier than thou
E.    Specifics: they are homophobic, transphobic, heteronormative, colonialist, and more

F.    This is sometimes correct—but we must judge, just as those who have judged us
G.    They may mean: “Shut up, so we can sin in peace.”

H. Jesus shows us how to judge with his master principle for judgment: judge yourself according to the right standard; then judge others in love

III.    The Logic of Judgment

A.    A judgment is a personal evaluation of a state of affairs—moral or non-moral

B.    A judgment is always made according to a standard—implicit or explicit 

C.    We must judge

1.    “Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” — Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV)

2.    Judgments about moral worth of the unborn, for example; judgments about sexual ethics and identity

IV.    Judging Jesus’ Way

A.    The standard is the Bible rightly interpreted and applied

B.    Jesus gave many judgments, some quite harsh: one of seven “woes” or condemning judgment against teachers of the law and Pharisees

1.    Condemnation (Matthew 23:15).

2.    Gentle rebuke (Matthew 6:30)

C.    Jesus had a perfect character, so all his judgments were correct and given in the right spirit; it is harder for us.

V.    Do Not Judge
Vs. 1-2: Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
1.    The Greek for judge (krino) means condemnation or being judgmental or censorious
Bill Mounce: “to assume censorial power over, to call to account, Mt. 7:1.”
2.    Warning: the judgment comes back on you, like a boomerang; you think you are on the bench as a judge, but you are also in the dock as the accused (John Stott)
VI.    Two White Hot Questions from Jesus
3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?
1.    Kind of question with an assumed answer: You should not do this.
2.    Why do you look without and not look within? Speck in another, log in your own? Initial judgment.
3.    Why do you want to remove the speck and not remove the plank in your own eye? Action based on the judgment, spoken or unspoken.
Avoid being a moral busybody (2 Peter 4:15).
VII.    Avoiding Hypocrisy; Making a Sound Judgment 
A.    V. 5: You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
B.    Jesus makes (1) accusation, (2) command, and (3) promise
1.    Accusation: Hypocrite: play actor; imposter, phony, charlatan. Used four times in Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7)
a.    Not that you fail to live up to your standard of God’s standard. We all do that—except Jesus Christ, who was sinless and morally perfect. Jesus was merciful to sinners who knew they were sinners
b.    Hypocrite: you pretend that you live up to your standard when you do not. You ignore your own sin, spot it in others; and want to remove it in others. You are a play actor, imposter, fraud, fake, phony.
2.    Command: First, take the plank out of your own eye. Plank is larger than a speck. Humorous image. Plank would obscure your ability to see and is more of a problem.
3.    Promise: sober and clear judgment: see clearly to remove the speck from “your brother’s eye.” Notice: brother, not enemy, not irritant, not “you people.”
VIII.    Jesus’ Master Principle of Judgment

A.    Judge yourself according to the right standard; then judge others in love

B.    Have the right standard: the Bible, God’s true and holy communication to us, “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12)

C.    Have the right attitude: critical and prayerful self-awareness

D.    Have a godly and loving approach to the judgment, not condemnation (Matthew 5:13-15).

E.    Don’t lose the saltiness and don’t be hidden away, but master Jesus’ master principle of judgment; Judge yourself according to the right standard; then judge others in love

Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D., is a Professor of Philosophy at Denver Seminary and the author of nineteen books, including Fire in the Streets (a critique of critical race theory or wokeness) and Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith.

Find more from Dr. Groothuis at www.DouglasGroothuis.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Blaise Pascal’s Case for Christianity

I.    The Genius of Blaise Pascal 

A.    Amazing life of Blaise Pascal (1623-1662)

B.    Pascal as an apologist; not a fideist (unlike Soren Kierkegaard)

C.    Nature of apologetics.

Defend the Christian worldview as objectively true, compellingly rational, and pertinent to all of life (1 Peter 3:15)

II.    Pascal’s Case for Christianity

A.    His apologetic be reconstructed.

Order. Men despise religion. They hate it and are afraid it may be true. The cure for this is first to show that religion is not contrary to reason, but worthy of reverence and respect. Next make it attractive, make good men wish it were true, and then show that it is. Worthy of reverence because it really understands human nature. Attractive because it promises true good. 

B.    We consider only two elements: the wager and the deposed royalty argument; there are more. See Douglas Groothuis, Beyond the Wager: the Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity Academic, 2024).

III.    The Wager: Risks, Rewards, Options

A.    We should bet on God being rule instead of betting on God’s unreality in light of the possible consequences.

    I should be much more afraid of being mistaken and then finding out that Christianity is true than of being mistaken in believing it to be true. 

B.    Theoretical reason: Is P true? How can I know this?

C.    Prudential reason: What do I gain or lose by believing P? What actions should I pursue on this matter?

D.    The outcomes and belief states

1.    Believer, if Christian God exists:
Gain: eternal life; avoid hell. Infinite gain
Loss: worldly pleasures. Finite loss

2.    Believer, if Christian God does not exist:
Gain: pleasures of religion. Finite gain    
Loss: worldly pleasures and truth. Finite loss

3.    Unbeliever (atheist or agnostic or member of other religion), if Christian God exists:
Gain: worldly pleasures. Finite gain
Loss: eternal life; gain hell, infinite loss

4.    Unbeliever, if Christian God does not exist:
Gain: worldly pleasures. Finite gain
Loss: nothing.

E.    Given the stakes, we should investigate the claims of Christianity with an open mind and open heart and not be indifferent. 

There are only three sorts of people: those who have found God and serve him; those who are busy seeking him and have not found him; those who live without either seeking or finding him. The first are reasonable and happy, the last are foolish and unhappy, those in the middle are unhappy and reasonable.  

IV.    The Human Problem and Puzzle

A.    What sort of freak then is man! How novel, how monstrous, how chaotic, how paradoxical, how prodigious! Judge of all things, feeble earthworm, repository of truth, sink of doubt and error, the glory and refuse of the universe! (131/434).

B.    How to live with the human burden in light of reality; “deposed royalty” who can be restored through Jesus Christ

C.    What are the options? We will look at two “live hypotheses”

V.    A True, Rational, and Significant Explanation.

A.    True explanation of the human condition: one that agrees with objective reality; factual; realism.

B.    Rational explanation: one that explains who we are in accordance with the evidence and sound reasoning.

C.    Significant explanation: one that gives us value, meaning, and realistic hope for being human in the world. Philosophical anthropology is a very important part of any worldview.

D.    Manner of explanation: abduction (inference to best explanation)

VI.    Views of Being Human: The New Age Worldview
 
A.    New Age or spiritual worldview: Ken Wilber, Oprah Winfrey, Deepak Chopra 

1.    Background belief on humanity

a.    Pantheism: everything is divine.

b.    Monism: all is one (or nondualism)

c.    Morality is not absolute, but good and evil dissolve into a universal and impersonal oneness.

2.    New Age view on humanity

a.    Human nature is really a divine nature: we are one with an impersonal deity.

b.    Human problem: we have forgotten our true identity as divine, one with all things, and unlimited.

c.    Human solution: Find the divine within through meditation, yoga, self-realization seminars.

3.    Questioning New Age philosophy

a.    Human beings are limited in power and goodness; this is evident and not a delusion or matter of ignorance.

b.    There are moral realities that reveal a moral dualism: good and evil; right and wrong; virtue and vice. Rape is always wrong; kindness is better than wanton cruelty.

VII.    Christianity: Deposed Royality

A.    Background belief: personal theism—God as Creator, Lord, Judge

B.    Pascal’s point can be strengthened by natural theology: arguments for God’s existence from nature and in accord with reason. 

C.    Human nature: created in God’s image and likeness (Genesis 1:27)

1.    Uniqueness of humanity: ethics, culture, language, religion 

2.    Human greatness: creativity, intelligence, etc. (#113/348)

Thinking reed. It is not in space that I must seek my human dignity, but in the ordering of my thought. It will do me no good to own land. Through space the universe grasps me and swallows me up like a speck; through thought I grasp it. 

3.    Human dignity: image-bearers of God (Psalm 8:3-5)

4.    Disjunction from the rest of the living world; different in kind, not just degree

D.    Human problem: we are fallen, warped, alienated, deposed

1.    Human evil: sexism, racism, pettiness, greed, envy, ad nauseum

2.    Our moral and spiritual corruption (Psalm 14:1-3; Mark 7:21-23)

3.    Corruptio optimi pessima: “There is nothing worse than the corruption of the best.”

4.    The essential problem: pride, self-centeredness, egotism (Romans 3:9-20)

5.    Escaping our condition through diversion

Diversion. If man were happy, the less he were diverted the happier he would be, like the saints and God. Yes: but is a man not happy who can find delight in diversion? 

E.    Neither angel nor beast, but human

It is dangerous to explain too clearly to man how like he is to the animals without pointing out his greatness. It is also dangerous to make too much of his greatness without his vileness. It is still more dangerous to leave him in ignorance of both, but it is most valuable to represent both to him. Man must not be allowed to believe that he is equal either to animals or to angels, nor to be unaware of either, but he must know both. 

F.    Humans! Wretched and great 

G.    The reality of death; life kills us all; finite time to figure it all out (Hebrews 9:27).

VIII.    Finding Truth, hope, and Purpose

A.    The human condition requires a radical, transcendent cure

B.    Jesus Christ provides this liberating cure for all people 

1.    Jesus: You must repent (Matthew 4:17).

2.    Jesus provides forgiveness, reconciliation, and restoration (John 3:16-18; Romans 5:6-8: Ephesians 2:1-10)

6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:6-8).

3.    The message is liberating for everyone; we are all deposed royalty (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 4:12; I Timothy 2:5-6).

C.    Being human with knowledge, hope, and integrity

1.    Jesus is a God whom we can approach without pride and before whom we can humble ourselves without despair. 

2.    A world view that makes sense of oneself and others

3.    The strength to love and serve through Jesus Christ, “the Mediator” (Pascal’s term)

The Christians’ God is a God who makes the soul aware that he is its sole good: that in him alone can it find peace; that only in loving him can it find joy: and who at the same time fills it with loathing for the obstacles which hold it back and prevent it from loving God with all its might.  

4.    Provides incentive to give oneself selflessly to God and God’s liberating program for humanity.

5.    Know then, proud man, what a paradox you are to yourself. Be humble, impotent reason! Be silent, feeble nature! Learn that man infinitely transcends man, hear from your master your true condition, which is unknown to you. Listen to God. 

Resources on Blaise Pascal and the Human Condition

1.    Douglas Groothuis, Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).
2.    Douglas Groothuis, Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith, 2nd ed. (InterVarsity Press, 2022). 
3.    Douglas Groothuis, Truth Decay: Defending Christianity Against the Challenges of Postmodernism (InterVarsity Press, 2000). Critique of postmodernist ideas in philosophy, theology, ethics, race, gender, and the arts.
4.    Blaise Pascal, Pensées, ed. Alban Krailsheimer (Penguin, 1966). Standard collection with an excellent introduction by Krailsheimer.
5.    Blaise Pascal, The Mind on Fire, ed. James Houston (Bethany House Publishers, 1997). Collection from Pensées and Pascal’s shorter works. Excellent introduction by Os Guinness.
6.    Michael Rota, Taking Pascal’s Wager: Faith, Evidence, and the Abundant Life (InterVarsity, 2016).
7.    James W. Sire, The Universe Next Door: A Basic Worldview Catalogue, 5th ed. (InterVarsity Press, 2009). Compares major worldviews, including each worldview’s understanding of the human condition.

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FINDING POWER OVER ERROR
ACTS 13:1-12

I.      The Desperate Need: Power in Gospel Outreach

A.    Truth decay and the reality of spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10-18)

B.    Handling opposition in evangelism and apologetics

C.    Finding spiritual power for the proclamation and defense of the gospel

II.     The Spreading Flame: The Acts of the Holy Spirit

A.    The birth of the church through the work of Jesus Christ, Lord of all.

B.    Jesus: “You will receive power from the Holy Spirit” (Acts 1:8; John 14:16-17)

C. Beginning of great gospel adventures—and conflicts (Acts 14:22)

III.     Preparation for Ministry (Acts 13:1-3)

A.    Prophets and teachers: Spirit-empowered ministry positions

B.    Multi-ethnic ministry (Galatians 3:26-28)

C.    Fasting and prayer before God and with the church (Acts 2:42; 3:1; 4:24; 6:4; 10:31; 14:23; 28:8)

D.    Prayer and fasting in the ministry of Jesus (Matthew 4:1-2; 6:16-18; 9:5)

E.    God’s corporate call for mission (Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:45-49: Acts 1:8)

F.    Paul’s individual call to mission (Acts 9:1-19; Galatians 1:11-24)

His first excursion to the Gentiles

G.    Power principle #1: We need a God-ward orientation to discern God’s call to mission and to receive God’s power over error.

H.    Power principle #2: We need the wisdom of the church to discern God’s call to mission and to receive God’s power over error.

IV.     Beginning the Mission (Acts 13:4-5)

A.    The importance of Paul’s first mission; door opened to the Gentiles

B.    Sent out by the Holy Spirit (second reference to the Holy Spirit)

C.    Proclaimed the Word of God by the Spirit (2 Timothy 3:14-17; Hebrews 4:12)

D.    John was their helper (Romans 12:8; 1 Corinthians 12:28)

E.    Power principle #3: We need to proclaim God’s word to find power over error.

F.    Power principle #4: Behind the scenes helpers are vital for powerful ministry.

V.     The Power of Error: Enter the Sorcerer (Acts 13:6-8)    

A.    Team traveled a long distance for the gospel; sacrifice (Matthew 10:37-38)

B.    Bar-Jesus: Jewish sorcerer and false prophet (Deuteronomy 18:9-14, 20; Acts 8:9-11; Revelation 22:15)

C.    Sergius Paulus: intelligent Roman political leader. Wanted to hear the Word of God. This is an open door for the gospel.

Considering Sergius Paulus’s authority, the mission team probably could not have refused his offer; that adds extra pressure. 

D.    Elymas wants to shut the open door for the gospel. Conflict and controversy ensue. 

E.    Power principle #5: The power of error opposes the truth of the gospel.

VI.     Power Over Error: Enter Paul (Acts 13:9-11)

A.    Saul, called Paul (Roman version of the Semitic Saul)

B.    “Filled with the Holy Spirit” (third reference to the Holy Spirit)

C.    Stared him down with condemning truth. He is a:

1.    Child of the devil (John 8:44)

2.    Enemy of everything right (Matthew 13:39)

3.    Full of deceit and trickery (Matthew 13:19)

4.    Paul’s question…not answered by the sorcerer.

5.    Blinded, for a time (Isaiah 44:25-26)

D.    Power principle #6: A Spirit-filled and biblical-informed Christian challenges error courageously.

VII.     Power Over Error in Evangelism (Acts 13:12)

A.    Sergius Paulus was amazed at God’s truth and power; he believed

B.    Miracles and teaching work together through the Holy Spirit, all backed by prayer and holy living.

C.    Power principle #7: God’s work in God’s way finds power over error, but this does not eliminate hardships and setbacks in our mission (Acts 14:22).

VIII.     Finding Power Over Error Today

A.    Spirit-led and biblically informed mission generates opposition to its mandate. 

B.    Prepare for spiritual opposition as you explain, proclaim, and defend the gospel.

C.    Applying these seven power principles today

1.    Find godly fellowship (Acts 2:42)

2.    Seek God in prayer and fasting (Matthew 6:16-18)

3.    Study and share God’s Word (Psalm 119; 2 Timothy 3:15-17)

4.    Expect opposition and controversy (Matthew 10:34-39)

5.    Find humble helpers—and be a humble helper

6.    Expose error courageously in God’s timing (Joshua 1:6-9)

7.    Expect God to vindicate God’s truth, but not without hardships.

Recommended reading:

1.    Sharon Beekman, Silencing Satan (Wipf and Stock, 2012). Major academic study by one who understands the demonic world by experience and through study as a Christian. 
2.    Mark Bubeck, Overcoming the Adversary (Moody Press, 1984). On spiritual warfare. An updated version is called Warfare Prayer.
3.    Ajith Fernando. The NIV Application Commentary: Acts (Zondervan, 1998). Excellent and practical commentary.

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Exploring the theme of "Power for True Witness," Dr. Groothuis delivers a sermon at Littleton Christian Church, diving into Acts 1-8 and John 14, 16-17 to discuss the biblical concept of truth, Jesus as the way, truth, and life, and the empowerment to share this truth through the Holy Spirit. The episode highlights Dr. Groothuis' extensive experience in philosophy and academia, celebrating his 31-year tenure at Denver Seminary and his upcoming role at Cornerstone University in Michigan.

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What is Fluff?

Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs. The Teacher searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true. (Ecclesiastes 12:9-10, NIV).

Harry Frankfurt in On BS:

The BS-er…is neither on the side of the true nor on the side of the false. His eye is not on the facts at all, as the eyes of the honest man and of the liar are, except insofar as they may be pertinent to his interest in getting away with what he says. He does not care whether the things he says describe reality correctly. He just picks them out, or makes them up, to suit his purpose.[1]

Fluff is whatever is extraneous, superfluous, or unseemly. Fluff is the opposite of the substantial or the fundamental. Physical fluff is never desired and easily floats away. No one wants it, unless it is in a pillow, perhaps.

Some students pad their papers in order to meet word requirements. Such padding is always fluff and may involve going down rabbit trails unrelated to the thesis of the writing.

Much fluff today is autobiographical, and there are far too many memoirs.[2] Entire books may be autobiographical fluff, such as the egregious Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller and myriad others.[3] Contemporary writers often cannot resist talking about themselves even when it is irrelevant to the point they should be making. One of the great principles of the classic writing guide, Elements of Style, is to keep yourself in the background. This is what Strunk and White write:

Write in a way that draws the reader’s attention to the sense and substance of the writing, rather than to the mood and temper of the author. If the writing is solid and good, the mood and temper of the writer will eventually be revealed and not at the expense of the work. Therefore, the first piece of advice is this: to achieve style, begin by affecting none—that is, place yourself in the background.[4]

Exhibitionism is one of the great sins and blind spots of our age. Consider Victor Frankl’s comments about why he reluctantly decided not to anonymously publish his classic book, Man’s Search for Meaning:

"I had intended to write this book anonymously, using my prison number only. But when the manuscript was completed, I saw that as an anonymous publication, it would lose half its value and that I must have the courage to state my convictions openly. I therefore refrained from deleting any of the passages, in spite of an intense dislike of exhibitionism."[5]

Fluff may also be unseemly, which may or may not include gratuitous personal references. The unseemly is what is inappropriate—the lude, crude, or rude. What Paul applies to speech should be applied to writing. “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen” (Ephesians 4:29).

To tighten it up: Fluff is what is unnecessary in a piece of writing, either due to BS, redundancy, exhibitionism, or literary boorishness. Fluff can be avoided by removing unnecessary content, by keeping yourself in the background, and by being polite. To avoid fluff, ask yourself these questions:

1. Am I aiming at objective truth?
2. Have I written more than is needed?
3. Have I said too much about myself?
4. Have I been off-putting or offensive to my reader?

[1] Frankfurt, Harry G. On Bullshit (p. 56). Princeton University Press. Kindle Edition.

[2] I wrote a memoir, which I attempted to justify in the first chapter. Douglas Groothuis, “Introduction,” Walking Through Twilight: A Wife’s Illness—A Philosopher’s Lament (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 2017).

[3] Donald Miller, Blue Like Jazz (New York: Harper Horizon, 2003). The first paragraph of page 103 is the most absurd and egregious collection of falsehoods I have encountered.

[4] Strunk JR., William; White, E.B. The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition. Pandora's Box. Kindle Edition.

[5] Frankl, Viktor E. Man's Search for Meaning (pp. 6-7). Beacon Press. Kindle Edition.

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In today's special episode, we delve into the profound topic of Christ's atoning work on the cross, a cornerstone of Christian theology. I had the privilege of sharing a sermon I recently delivered at the Reformed Baptist Church of Northern Colorado, where we explored the essential elements of atonement through a theological lens.

During the sermon, I discussed the multifaceted aspects of atonement, including propitiation, expiation, redemption, justification, and the victory over evil forces, all of which underscore the comprehensive nature of Christ's sacrifice. This discussion was enriched with scriptural references and theological insights, aiming to deepen our understanding of these doctrines and their implications for our faith and daily lives.

Moreover, I addressed several common objections to the doctrine of atonement, providing thoughtful rebuttals to ensure that we, as believers, are equipped to defend our faith effectively. The sermon also emphasized the importance of evangelism and the assurance of salvation, encouraging us to live out our faith boldly and share the transformative power of the Gospel with others.

This episode is not just a reflection on theological concepts but a call to action to embrace the full implications of Christ's work on the cross, ensuring it resonates deeply in our personal and communal spiritual lives. Join us as we explore these truths and their enduring impact on our journey of faith.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of Christian apologetics and the atonement, I recommend checking out my book, "Christian Apologetics," where I delve further into these topics.

Thank you for tuning in to Truth Tribe. If you found this episode enlightening, please consider sharing it with others and joining us again as we continue to seek and celebrate the truth about the things that matter most.

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Stepping into the world of public speaking can be daunting. Whether you're a newbie feeling the jitters or a seasoned pro looking to fine-tune your skills, we've got thirty simple tips you can do today to immediately level up your public speaking game. From taming those butterflies in your stomach to perfecting your delivery style, these strategies are your secret to becoming a confident and charismatic speaker. Let's get ready to unleash your inner orator!

1. Pray before speaking. I pray something like this, “Lord, help me to speak the truth in love with wisdom such that knowledge is imparted that sticks to the soul spreads through the world for your glory.” See Ephesians 4:15; Titus 2:7-8.

2. Say something worth saying. Time is short, Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:16.

3. Study adequately. It is better to over-study (if there is such a thing) than understudy, especially in preaching. See James 3:1-2.

4. Never rely on your charisma. Rely on God and the knowledge you have to offer people.

5. Learn how to speak grammatically and with the best version of your voice you can offer. You may want to talk with a speech coach.

6. Have water with you on the podium, but don't take large gulps, but small sips. The water should be warm, not cold. Cold water constricts your throat and hurts your voice.

Want to know the rest? Listen to today's episode of Truth Tribe to unlock these great tips! 

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The great scientist and philosopher, Blaise Pascal (1623-1662), understood humans as disposed royalty—royal by virtue of creation in God image, but ruined through the fall. However, there is hope in the ruins because of the achievements of Jesus Christ on our behalf. I have written extensively of Pascal’s apologetic elsewhere, but we focus on his critique of society, which is as profound and pertinent as any aspect of his wide-ranging and brilliant work.

What follows is an excerpt from Douglas Groothuis, Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity, 2024).

Living as deposed royalty in a fallen world means observing the corruption of culture and politics by vanity and concupiscence, to use two of Pascal’s categories. Ever the astute student of human nature, Pascal trained his gimlet eye on the pretenses, postures, dissimulations, and hidden absurdities of everyday life. His concern and critique were both universal and particular to his day. Humans east of Eden are, when studied soberly and carefully, ineluctably odd and inexplicable creatures—that is, until they are deciphered by the divinely revealed categories of creation and the fall. Human culture, which proceeds from the greatness and wretchedness of humanity, likewise generates odd patterns of custom, habit, fashion, and more; it, too, needs to be deciphered according to a higher wisdom. Can the madness of the world be brought to heel through criticism? “Men are so inevitably mad that not to be mad would be to give a mad twist to madness.”

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A pastor cares for his or her flock through tender concern, prayer, teaching, and insight into his or her parishioners. But one may be pastoral without being called to be a pastor of a church. I know a young man who graduated from Denver Seminary who has never held a pastoral position, but who is more pastoral with friends, family, and strangers than most pastors I know. He recently befriended a lonely man dying from a neurological disease and continued to pastor him until his death. Matt is a pastoral non-pastor. Sadly, we find non-pastoral pastors. I will argue that ordinary Christians can be pastors to animals. Certainly, there are no paid positions in this field, but life is bigger than a salary.

A stanza from old poem by Frances Alexander sets the tone:

All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful,
The Lord God made them all.

Along with all creation, animals are owned by God. Some creatures display aspects of the Creator’s character. Sheep, for example, are meek (Isaiah 53:7), and Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God (John 1:29). God invokes his design of the animal kingdom in answering Job from the whirlwind (Job 38-42).  The righteous care for their animals (Proverbs 12:10). Rebekah’s concern for camels was a sign from the Lord that she was to be Isaac’s wife (Genesis 24:12-14).

Our Lord, Jesus Christ, tells us to consider God’s care for creatures:

Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they (Matthew 6:26).

God has made a covenant with all of creature, not merely humans.  As he told Moses:

Behold, I establish my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the cattle, and every beast of the earth with you, as many as came out of the ark (Genesis 9:9-10).

Through the prophet Hosea, God further promises a future covenant for the animal creation.

In that day I will make a covenant for them with the beasts of the field, the birds in the sky and the creatures that move along the ground. Bow and sword and battle I will abolish from the land, so that all may lie down in safety (Hosea 2:18).

Three Principles

First, animals deserve prayer and are part of the creation longing for redemption.

For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time (Romans 8:19-22).

Second, an animal pastor works to strengthen the animal-human bond and to honor the death of beloved animals.

Prayer for One Grieving Over the Loss of a Pet

I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work. I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men, that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts. For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity. All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth? Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?—Ecclesiastes 3:17-22, King James Version.

Oh Creator of all living things, and Giver of every good and perfect gift, we thank you for the gift of living creatures. You have made each thing according to its kind, each finds its place in your creation. You have given us dominion over the earth and put living things into our care, including our pets. We thank you for these animal friends, and while we know they cannot provide the fellowship given by members of our own kind, we thank you for the love and joy that comes from these fellow creatures.

We ask you now to comfort the master of a beloved pet who has gone the way of all flesh. All the living will likewise die, and the death of one of your image-bearers is far more consequential than that of a dog or cat. Yet the master grieves the loss of an animal companion, one put in his or her care. Fond memories of pet can last a lifetime. We ask that the manifold sorrows of this veil of tears not overwhelm the master, that life without their beloved pet would find healing and that the memories of this unique creature would bring happiness and consolation even in light of the bitterness of loss.

In the name of Jesus Christ, the Great Shepherd of the Sheep.

Amen.

Third, an animal pastor blesses animals.

Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen (Hebrews 13:20-21).

The Roman Catholics developed a liturgy for “the blessing of the animals.” Although I am a loyal Protestant, the Catholics have us beat on this. Catholics observe the blessing of pets and animals on October 4, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, or on a Sunday nearest that date. I take the following from an on-line article, “Blessing of Animals” by Kevin E. Mackin, O.F.M. At Franciscan churches, a friar with brown robe and white cord often welcomes each animal with a special prayer. The Blessing of Pets usually goes like this:

Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the land. You inspired St. Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.

Even if Protestant churches do not adopt this practice (maybe a few have), the sentiments are applicable to any Christian’s relationships to pets and other animals.

My theology of animals and how to pastor them is undeveloped, but it is growing the more I observe and reflect on the animal kingdom all around us. Consider applying these three principles to your life with the creatures outside your species but under God’s care.

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The Bible is God's anthropology rather than man's theology.
— Abraham Joshua Heschel

We humans often puzzle over our own humanity, scanning our heights and our depths, wondering about and worrying over the meaning of our good and our evil. No other animal reflects on its species like this. Here, and in so many other ways, we stand unique among living creatures. Why does such evil strike so hard and so erratically? And what explains our greatness in thought and action? Blaise Pascal writes:

“What sort of freak then is man! How novel, how monstrous, how chaotic, how paradoxical, how prodigious! Judge of all things, feeble earthworm, repository of truth, sink of doubt and error, the glory and refuse of the universe!”

Blaise Pascal answered this be appealing to our greatness as made in God’s image and our wretchedness because of the fall and our sinfulness.

“Man's greatness and wretchedness are so evident that the true religion must necessarily teach us that there is in man some great principle of greatness and some great principle of wretchedness."

In the context of surveying human greatness and misery in many dimensions of life, Pascal says: "It is the wretchedness of a great lord, the wretchedness of a dispossessed king."  He further writes:

“Know then, proud man, what a paradox you are to yourself. Be humble, impotent reason! Be silent, feeble nature! Learn that man infinitely transcends man, hear from your master your true condition, which is unknown to you. Listen to God.”

The biblical account of our creation and fall best fits the facts of human reality. However, we must "listen to God" — that is, attend to what God has spoken in the Bible — to discover this liberating truth.

Pascal further counsels us that the biblical account reveals that there is a Redeemer for royal ruins — Himself, a King, who became a man in order to rescue those who are "east of Eden" and standing at the brink of eternity. Pascal says that in Him we find hope for our deposed condition: "Jesus is a God whom we can approach without pride and before whom we can humble ourselves without despair." Though we are royal ruins, we can find total forgiveness, redemption, and eternal life through the one who truly understands our condition. (See John 3:16-18; 10:10; and Romans 5:1-8.)

For more on Pascal’s thought, see Douglas Groothuis, Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal (InterVarsity—Academic, 2024).

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Jazz, at its best, inducts its own into aesthetic alliances, some long-lasting, others fleeting, but all meaningful. Musician and listener can find fellowship musically. Meaning is experienced when we find something of value, something worthwhile. When two or more agree on meaning—especially in music—the fellow-feeling may run deep and true. The late Pat Martino, jazz guitarist extraordinaire, along with a good friend helped this happen to me in the summer of 2012 in Chicago at The Jazz Showcase. This event is sweetly and securely lodged in my memory and often brings tears to my eyes. Perhaps my short story of his encounter will ring true and trigger a certain grace of understanding and experience.

Jazz is, at its best, relational. It moves from person to person, from instrument to ear, and not from product to consumer. Jazz, as one of life’s many gifts, can open doors to a treasury of free and freeing fellowship where art and heart meet and kiss. And I thank my God for it.

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Jazz is a national treasure, but is no longer a common pastime. First, rock and then hip-hop eclipsed its popularity long ago. Historian Gerald Early claims that three things uniquely define America: the Constitution, baseball, and jazz. Yet the sale of jazz records accounts for only a small fraction of the music market. The last time I checked, it was 4%.

Many of my students at Denver Seminary and at other institutions where I teach know very little about it, and are a bit puzzled if not flummoxed by my references to it. Others claim they “do not understand jazz,” perhaps with a twinge of guilt that they should. Last summer, a very intelligent and godly campus minister and long-time friend attended a jazz concert with me. Afterward, he said, “The music has a center, but I cannot find it.” I humbly or not-so-humbly told him that I had found it and that I loved it. I love it for many reasons. One outstanding reason is that it can help inform and reform our apologetics engagements through its distinctive genius. All that is needed is a bit of transposition from the sensibilities of jazz to the skills of apologetics. . . .

Jazz Skills for Apologetics

1. Know the standard arguments in apologetics. See Douglas Groothuis, Christian Apologetics, 2nd (InterVarsity, 2022) and Douglas Groothuis and Andrew Shepardson, The Knowledge of God in the World and in the Word (Zondervan, 2022). (1 Peter 3:15; Jude 3)
2. Spend time in the woodshed. Study and practice. (2 Timothy 2:15; Hebrews 5:11-14)
3. Improvise according to your knowledge. (John 15:5)
4. Learn to syncopate, or be creative in apologetics. (Luke 19:1-10; see also Acts 17:16-34)

Recommended books

1. William Edgar, A Supreme Love.
2. Robert Gelinas, Finding the Groove.
3. Ted Gioia, The Imperfect Art.
4. Ted Gioia,

1. Douglas Groothuis articles about jazz at AllAboutJazz.com.

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Easter commemorates and celebrates a historical event unlike any other: the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.  But what is the significance of the resurrection? And how can we know it really happened?  

The four Gospels report that Jesus predicted his death, burial, and resurrection. He was born to die. All of his wondrous teachings, healings, exorcisms, and transforming relationships with all manner of people—from fishermen to tax collectors to prostitutes to revolutionaries—would be incomplete without his crucifixion and resurrection. Shortly before his death, “Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priest and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life” (Matthew 16:21). Peter resisted this grim fact, but Jesus rebuked him.  There was no other way (vs. 22-23).  For, as Jesus had taught, he “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). 

Easter is the core of the Christian faith and life. Without the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ, there is no gospel message, no future hope, and no new life in Christ. With the resurrection, Christianity stands unique in all the world: no other spiritual movement is based on the resurrection of its divine founder. When Jesus announced, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 10:25), he meant it and he demonstrated it.  Let us, then, leave our dead ways and follow him today and into eternity.

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Any jazz aficionado knows the musical virtues of jazz, whether they are a musician, a jazz writer, or simply a committed jazz listener. In classical Western thought (that is, in the musings of cats like Aristotle and Plato) a virtue is a kind of excellence in performance that flows from a settled habit. One who plays the flute as it ought to be played—the proper tone, pitch, and timing—displays a virtue or sharp skill in that musical instrument. One may be virtuous with respect to any endeavor worth doing, since anything worth doing is worth doing well. One who masters a worthwhile skill is a virtuoso.

The four virtues of jazz that translate to other areas of life:

1. Tradition
2. Collaboration
3. Improvisation
4. Transcendence

For more, see Douglas Groothuis’s articles on jazz at www.AllAboutJazz.com and Ted Gioia, The Imperfect Art. 

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I am a jazz aficionado as well as a philosophy professor. Being in front of a classroom teaching is my favorite place on earth, second to a good jazz club with hip friends. In the midst of a philosophy class, I may wax enthusiastic about the transcendent qualities of a John Coltrane saxophone solo or the preternatural swing of Buddy Rich’s timekeeping or the song-writing and band-leading genius of Duke Ellington. 

These comments are not merely idiosyncratic. They reflect something of a philosophical theory of pedagogy that is steeped in jazz sensibilities. After over thirty years of teaching philosophy in various settings, I have come to realize that my pedagogy has developed in ways that reflect the sensibilities and philosophy of jazz. This has much to do with my long-time love of jazz: the music, the history, the culture, and the players.  The classroom should swing; students and their professor should spend time in the woodshed; the class will jam on philosophical themes deeply rooted in tradition, but be open to new chops.  Some of my students learn these terms, incorporate them into their vocabulary, and start using them in relation to whatever subject we are addressing—and not just about jazz.

Three elements of jazz to appropriate for the classroom.

1. Jazz works from and creatively appropriates a revered and rich tradition, the origins of which are not entirely clear and are a matter of scholarly dispute.
2. Jazz is, at its best, highly creative in composition and in performance. Although jazz virtuosi are steeped in tradition, they must find their own voice in order to perpetuate that tradition in new forms—that is, to refract jazz through the prisms of their own unique personalities. Finding that voice requires moving from imitation to creation.
3. Third, jazz is, according to the master jazz writer Whitney Balliett, “the sound of surprise.” A well-played piece of jazz music—even the most well-known standard—summons new ideas from jazz performers. The well-known need not be the well-worn, since the musical form—tied to the discipline of the musicians—can always yield something fresh and inspiring—or disastrous. 

Swinging in the Classroom

There are many more chops to develop and traditions to fathom and appropriate in order to draw out the connections between the artistry of jazz and the artistry of the philosopher’s professorial pedagogy. But if we attend to the jazz sensibilities of mastering and extending a tradition through a strong work ethic; if we labor to find our own philosophical and pedagogical voices; and if we savor “the sound of surprise,” we will be well on our way to swinging in the classroom—and beyond.

Resources
1. Douglas Groothuis, “The Virtues of Jazz,” All About Jazz: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/the-virtues-of-jazz-john-coltrane-by-douglas-groothuis.php#.VGL4XPl4p4c
2. Douglas Groothuis, “How Teachers Can Swing in the Classroom” All About Jazz, http://www.allaboutjazz.com/jazz-pedagogy-by-douglas-groothuis.php#.VGL5Zfl4p4c
3. Douglas Groothuis, “John Coltrane and the Meaning of Life,” All About Jazz: https://www.allaboutjazz.com/john-coltrane-and-the-meaning-of-life-john-coltrane-by-douglas-groothuis.php.  
4. Douglas Groothuis, “Whiplash and Philosophy.” Film review at And Philosophy: https://andphilosophy.com/2015/06/18/whiplash-and-philosophy.  
5. Douglas Groothuis, “Jazz, Suffering, and Meaning.” All About Jazz: https://www.allaboutjazz.com/jazz-suffering-and-meaning-cyrus-chestnut-by-douglas-groothuis.php.  
6. Douglas Groothuis, “Jazz and Philosophy” at All About Jazz: https://www.allaboutjazz.com/jazz-and-philosohy-john-coltrane-by-douglas-groothuis.php.  
7. Douglas Groothuis, “Jazz and Moral Theory: Swinging the Right Way: All About Jazz: https://www.allaboutjazz.com/jazz-and-moral-theory-swinging-the-right-way-by-douglas-groothuis.php

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Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.
4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.

I.    My Life of Testing the Spirits

II.    1 John: Truth for Life: Review

III.    Our Society of Testing

A.    We need reliable test to find truth.

The LORD detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him (Proverbs 11:1).

B.    Test other religions, cults, and new religions, progressive Christianity by Scripture

C.    We must measure spiritual maturity by testing the spirits. Biblical standard for right judgment.

a.    False apostles

13 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness (2 Corinthians 11:13-15).

b.    False teachers (Matthew 7:15-16)

Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them.

c.    False angels preaching false gospel (Galatians 1)

8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! 

d.    False doctrines (of demons)

The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons (1 Timothy 4:1).

IV.    We Must Test the Spirits 

A.    Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world (4:1).

B.    Don’t be naïve or gullible—don’t be a sucker

C.    You must test, evaluate, assess, because of counterfeits; counterfeit money; hacking, scammers

D.    Many false prophets out in the world; not rare, but common
Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come (1 John 2:18).

V.    The Standard for the Truth Test (v. 2-3)

A.    2 This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world (4:2-3).

B.    Test by the standard of Jesus Christ, who he is, what he taught

1.    Either/or resulting in a pass/fail; no middle ground; no gray zone; no mist, haze, fog or bog. Not grading on a curve.
It is a categorical test; a universal test; and a necessary test.

2.    Test counterfeit money by knowing the real thing, the genuine—the genuine and authentic Jesus in the Bible

3.    Consider five statements in 1 John about Jesus

1.    He came as a flesh and blood man who was seen and touched (1 John 1:1-3)

2.    “Advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:1-2).

3.    He appeared to destroy the devil’s work (1 John 3:8)

4.    Jesus’ work of love: “Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters” (1 John 3:16).

5.    “He is the true God and eternal life” (1 John 5:20).

C.    This test is sufficient to identify spirit of error; there are other errors wrought by the spirit of error. Get this one wrong, everything else is wrong. Christological test.

D.    Two test cases

1.    Islam: denies Jesus is God incarnate; denies that he died to atone for our sins.

2.    New Age: denies Jesus is the one incarnation, says he was one of many gurus, masters, swamis, yogis, mystics. I wrote two books that addressed this, Revealing the New Age Jesus and Jesus in an Age of Controversy.

E.    Three tips on testing from a veteran

1.    Non-Christian groups may use our vocabulary, but not our dictionary. Know your Bible; ready, study, memorize. 

2.    Texts out of context are a pretext for error. Satan tempting Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4; Luke 4). Know your Bible.

3.    If a religious group says it accepts the Bible as a true revelation, but accepts other books as revelations, it will contradict the Bible at key places about Christ and salvation.

VI.    Overcoming Error by the Spirit of Truth

A.    Overcoming (v. 4)

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world (4:4)

1.    Overcome in what way? Vicarious victory through Christ, crucified and resurrected. They have no authority over you. You are free from their lies.

2.    Overcome who? Those “in the world,” fallen cultural, political, religious system. People: false prophets, false apostle, false teachers, demons, angels of light, the Devil, and the spirit of antichrist 

3.    Overcome how? Through faith in Christ, who is in you

a.    4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:4-5).

b.    “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith” (I John 5:4)

VII.     Speaking Truth and Listening for Truth (vs. 5-6)

5 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.

A.    Test by power within you and the knowledge within you: Confidence. Greater is the Spirit of God in you, Christ in you, than the spirits of error (4:4).

B.    Ultimate either/or; dichotomy of discourse: Truth of Christ; lies of the spirit of error and its mouthpieces, megaphones, and media

C.    Spirit of truth and error; not just truth or error philosophically

1.    Spirits from the world: “doctrines of demons” 

“The Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons.” (1 Timothy 4:1)

2.    Spirit of God and the word of God: “Living and active” word of God (Hebrews 4:12)

D.    Origin of error “viewpoint of the world” (2:15-17); false assumptions lead to false conclusions; but Christians have the Spirit of truth within us, the risen Christ!

E.    The test about the spiritual truthfulness of others is not a subjective feeling or whether they seem nice or sincere; it is a doctrinal test.

Jesus calls the Holy Spirit the Spirit of Truth (John 14:17; 15:26; 16:13)

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Those of you who've read my book, Walking Through Twilight, know that my dog Sonny is mentioned numerous times. He was a gift from God for my first wife Becky and myself, as we suffered together through her dementia and through her death in 2018. 

An old stanza from an old poem by Francis Alexander sets the tone for today's episode of Truth Tribe:

All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small, all things wise and wonderful, the Lord God made them all.

Animals and humans were created by God to live together in harmony. Of course, the fall and the flood changed all that. But all the living kinds that God created remain good, as Genesis 1 teaches. Paul the Apostle, of course, agrees. "For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer." 1 Timothy 4: 4-5

The Bible teaches us that humans alone bear the image of God, Genesis 1:26 and that this image remains after the fall. We see that in Genesis 9. Since man, since human beings are made in the image and likeness of God, that image cannot be denied. It cannot be eradicated. This heartbreak between humans and the rest of God's creation does not imply that men and women can treat animals any way they wish. Animals are not mere fodder for human whims.

Today, without developing a whole theology of the animal world, I offer a few principles for how Christians can show pastoral concern to animals, whether or not they interact with them regularly and directly.

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Few people have shaped the twentieth century’s understanding of Christianity more than its opponent, Sigmund Freud (1856-1939), and its advocate C. S. Lewis (1898-1964). Lewis, an adult convert from atheism, made his career as an Oxford don, but became well-known as a Christian apologist. Freud developed a revolutionary psychological theory (psychoanalysis), which established his career, started a movement, and ensured his titanic influence on Western thought. But he employed that theory against religion in general and Christianity in particular, dismissing them as neurotic. In 2003, Armand Nicholi published The Question of God. C.S. Lewis and Sigmund Freud Debate God, Love, Sex, and the Meaning of Life. Alas, the film does not reach its level of fairness or rigor.

Freud’s case against Lewis hinges on two claims: (1) that religion is an illusion) and (2) the problem of evil. Religion is merely wish-fulfillment that represents one’s inability to face the evils of life without some supernatural consolation.

First, the idea that Christianity is an “illusion” because it merely projects an idealistic idea of a father onto a godless universe has been refuted repeatedly. Simply because we desire X strongly is no evidence that X does not exist. Rather, it might be evidence that X does exist. In the film, Lewis is not given adequate room to develop the idea.

C. S. Lewis developed his argument from yearning in his famous essay “The Weight of Glory.” We all experience a deep sense of yearning or longing for something that the present natural world cannot fulfill—something transcendently glorious. In his autobiography he recounts several experiences of this throughout his life, in which he sensed something wonderful beyond his grasp. These were fleeting but invaluable moments, which he called the experience of “joy.” They were not encounters with God and did not directly result in his conversion. Instead, they were indicators that the everyday world was not a self-enclosed system; a light from beyond would sometimes peek through the “shadow lands.” This thirst, which is intensified by small tastes of transcendence, indicates the possibility of fulfillment.[i]

Creatures are not born with desires unless satisfaction for those desires exists. A baby feels hunger; well, there is such a thing as food. A duckling wants to swim; well, there is such a thing as water. Men feel sexual desire; well, there is such a thing as sex. If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world. If none of my early pleasures satisfy it, that does not prove that the universe is a fraud. Probably earthly desires were never meant to satisfy it, but only to arouse it, to suggest the real thing.[ii]

Second, Freud’s attack on Christianity through the problem of evil has been met in various ways by Christian philosophers and apologists over the ages. Lewis’s approach in the film was muted, but a careful reading of The Problem of Pain does much to address the matter rationally, although I part ways with Lewis understanding of “free will,” given that I am a compatibilist on human agency—something he did not even consider as a possibility.[iii] Nevertheless, a basic argument for Christianity in light of the problem of evil should look something like this. One can construct such an argument by using material only from Lewis, but his can be supplemented by many other sources.[iv]

1. There is good evidence for the existence of a personal, moral, and infinite God from natural theology—a God who is (a) all-good and (b) all-powerful.
2. God’s goodness, specifically, is known through the moral argument for God (a version of which Lewis gave in Mere Christianity) and through God’s saving actions in Jesus Christ (the historical dimension).
3. There is objective evil in the world.
4. Therefore (given 1 and 2), for any evil God allows, there is a sufficient reason for that evil to occur—whether we know what that reason is or not.[v]

Freud’s projection objection to theism fails, not only in its intrinsic logic, but because of the objective case for God’s existence based on evidence outside of human desires.

[i] This paragraph is taken from Groothuis, Douglas. Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith (pp. 367-368). InterVarsity Press. Kindle Edition.

[ii] C. S. Lewis, Mere Christianity (1944; reprint, New York: Simon & Schuster, 1996), 121. I develop this idea, with help from St. Augustine and Blaise Pascal, in Groothuis, Christian Apologetics, 366-368.

[iii] See Groothuis, Christian Apologetics, “The Problem of Evil.”

[iv] See Groothuis, Christian Apologetics.

[v] Thus, an inexplicable evil is not a gratuitous or meaningless evil.

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Too many educational innovations are, ironically, taking teachers out of their own classrooms. The age-old dynamic of a teacher instructing students in a dedicated setting (or often peripatetically, as did Jesus and Socrates) is subtly giving way to diverse “delivery systems,” such as entirely on-line courses, hybrid courses, and the glamorous and world of the MOOC (massive open-source online classes). The justifications for such innovations are many, but criticisms are needed as well.

Educational technologies need to be critiqued and used wisely, given their ubiquity and much-vaunted status. But before that, we need to think about the goal of teaching and the nature of knowledge. Students need knowledge and knowledge needs students, according to Roger Scruton. The purpose of teaching is to inculcate knowledge that needs to be known. The inherited wisdom the ages should not be lost through neglect or poor pedagogy—or by students who not inclined or not inspired to learn it. The classic idea of the university is to shape students to have a unified perspective on life, to make them well-rounded and independent thinkers.

Recommended Reading

Douglas Groothuis, The Soul in Cyberspace

Neil Postman, The End of Education

Quentin Schultz, Habits of the High Tech Heart

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I found my church home in Evangelical Anglicanism in early 2007. My denomination is The Anglican Church in North America (ACNA). It is not part of the Episcopalian denomination. But as I reflect on my church life, I am grateful to several churches for their faithfulness to God. My list is not inclusive of all the churches I have attended. Having been a Christ-follower for over forty-seven years, I will recount a few ways in which God has led and sanctified me for worship and service through his church. Perhaps my reflections will edify you and stimulate you to enter deeply into the life of the church that Christ bought with his own blood (Acts 20:28).

Please also consider reading my chapter called, “In Defense of the Church,” which is in Christian Apologetics, 2nd ed. (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity-Academic, 2022). See also Francis Schaeffer’s two books, The Church Before the Watching World and The Church at the End of the Twentieth Century.

Key Scriptures

And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it (Matthew 16:18).

Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood (Acts 20:28).

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